Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal, and that’s exactly what I think of when I make Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid. Picture a gathering with family or friends, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of baked goodness wafting from the oven. This dish brings everyone together, not just for the taste but for the experience it offers. I remember the first time I made this; I had some leftover chicken and a tube of crescent dough, and I was looking for something satisfying yet simple to whip up. What came out was a beautiful braid filled with creamy chicken salad, which quickly became a favorite at our dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and tastes absolutely divine!
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
15 mins
25 mins
Medium
410 kcal
24 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
24 g
Oven, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife
What Sets This Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid Apart
It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
One of the best aspects of the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid is its ability to please a crowd. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of flavors—from the succulent chicken to the crunchy celery and almonds—creates a melody of taste that everyone enjoys.
Versatile and Adaptable
This recipe isn’t set in stone; you can easily adapt it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Want to add some spice? Toss in a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a more savory flavor? Add some herbs or spices that you love. The crescent dough acts as a beautiful canvas for whatever you decide to create!
Beautiful Presentation
Let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first! The braided look of the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid makes it a stunning centerpiece for your table. It’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough to make on a whim. When you cut into it, the colorful filling peeks through the golden dough, making it just as delightful to serve as it is to eat.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re like me and love to meal prep, this dish is perfect! It can be made ahead of time, frozen, and then baked fresh when you need it. Leftovers heat up wonderfully, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Comfort Food at Its Best
When the weather turns chilly, or you need a little comfort, nothing beats a warm, cheesy dish like this. It’s satisfying and hearty, wrapped in crescent dough that adds a delightful flakiness to every bite. Enjoy it with a salad or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
What You’ll Need for Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid shine. Each ingredient has a purpose, working together to create a delicious and satisfying dish. The star here is the chicken, which brings substance and protein. On the other hand, the crescent dough provides a flaky, buttery exterior that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!
- 18 oz crescent seamless dough sheet – This is the base of our braid, offering that delightful flaky texture. You can use traditional crescent rolls if you can’t find the seamless version, just make sure to pinch the seams together.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked cubed Gold’n Plump Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Portions – The main protein for this dish, providing a satisfying and hearty element. Make sure it’s well-cooked and cubed for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup celery – Adds a wonderful crunch and freshness to the salad, balancing the creaminess of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup almonds – Chopped almonds bring a nice nutty flavor and additional crunch to the mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish, making sure each bite is seasoned perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon grated onion – Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The creaminess factor! It binds everything together and adds richness to the filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For a melty, cheesy goodness that enhances the flavor profile and adds moisture.
- 1/2 cup chow mein noodles – These give the filling a delightful crunch and texture contrast.
Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid Instructions
Making the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid is a fun and rewarding process! You’ll love how simple it is to combine all these delicious ingredients into one beautiful dish. Let’s get started!
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an essential first step to ensure your dough bakes evenly and becomes golden brown.
- Cook the Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Portions separately if they’re not pre-cooked. I recommend seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper while cooking to enhance the flavor. Once cooked, chop them into bite-sized cubes.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: the cooked chicken, celery, almonds, salt, grated onion, lemon juice, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and chow mein noodles. Mix everything until it’s well incorporated; the mixture should be creamy but not overly wet.
- Unroll your crescent sheet onto a greased baking sheet or a silpat liner. If you can’t find the seamless kind, that’s okay! Just press the seams together if you’re using a tube of crescent rolls.
- With a sharp knife, cut the dough, leaving about three inches uncut in the center. Make cuts down the sides of the dough about an inch apart. This is what creates the beautiful braid effect!
- Spread the chicken salad mixture down the middle of the crescent dough where it is uncut. Be generous with your filling; you want every bite to be delicious.
- Now it’s time to braid! Take the first strip of cut dough on one side and fold it over the filling to the center. Then, do the same with the corresponding strip from the opposite side. Continue this process until all strips are folded over the filling, creating a lovely braid effect.
- Pinch the seams at the end to seal the braid and make sure everything stays together. It should look pretty and secure!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the braid sit for about 10 minutes before cutting. This waiting time helps the filling set a little more.
Things Worth Knowing
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before putting the braid in; this helps it cook evenly.
- Let the chicken cool slightly before chopping it to prevent it from drying out.
- Experiment with the filling! You can add different vegetables or even swap out the chicken for another protein.
- For a more golden crust, brush some melted butter over the braid before baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken to speed up the process.
Tips and Tricks about Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid
Here are some handy tips to make your cooking experience even better while preparing the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid. These suggestions will help you enhance your dish and make the most of your cooking time!
- Storage: The Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven to keep the dough crispy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked braid before cooking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve the braid with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It really balances out the flavors!
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas for a different take!
- Serving Ideas: Consider cutting the braid into smaller pieces for appetizers or party snacks. It’s perfect for sharing!
Side Dish Ideas for Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid
Pairing the Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ideas:
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich braid.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a touch of color and are a healthy complement to the dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting side, perfect for soaking up any leftover filling.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet, fruity salad can provide a refreshing palate cleanser and balance the savory flavors of the braid.
- Baked Beans: For a heartier meal, a small serving of sweet baked beans pairs wonderfully with the crescent braid.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can add texture and are always a hit with family and friends.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the warm braid.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid is truly a standout dish that combines comfort and flavor in a stunning presentation. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or simply for a cozy dinner at home. You won’t be disappointed—this dish might just become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an essential first step to ensure your dough bakes evenly and becomes golden brown.
- Cook the Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Portions separately if they’re not pre-cooked. I recommend seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper while cooking to enhance the flavor. Once cooked, chop them into bite-sized cubes.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: the cooked chicken, celery, almonds, salt, grated onion, lemon juice, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and chow mein noodles. Mix everything until it’s well incorporated; the mixture should be creamy but not overly wet.
- Unroll your crescent sheet onto a greased baking sheet or a silpat liner. If you can’t find the seamless kind, that’s okay! Just press the seams together if you’re using a tube of crescent rolls.
- With a sharp knife, cut the dough, leaving about three inches uncut in the center. Make cuts down the sides of the dough about an inch apart. This is what creates the beautiful braid effect!
- Spread the chicken salad mixture down the middle of the crescent dough where it is uncut. Be generous with your filling; you want every bite to be delicious.
- Now it’s time to braid! Take the first strip of cut dough on one side and fold it over the filling to the center. Then, do the same with the corresponding strip from the opposite side. Continue this process until all strips are folded over the filling, creating a lovely braid effect.
- Pinch the seams at the end to seal the braid and make sure everything stays together. It should look pretty and secure!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the braid sit for about 10 minutes before cutting. This waiting time helps the filling set a little more.
Notes
- Storage: The Hot Chicken Salad Crescent Braid can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven to keep the dough crispy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked braid before cooking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve the braid with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It really balances out the flavors!
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas for a different take!
- Serving Ideas: Consider cutting the braid into smaller pieces for appetizers or party snacks. It’s perfect for sharing!
